ABSTRACT
Burnout is the consequence of differing mixes of predisposing and precipitating factors, and requires nuanced management addressing both realms. This chapter overviews how to interpret the scientific evidence that underpins the validity of any treatment. Often the evidence base is unclear. The key proposition is this: when dealing with burnout, differing solutions will have differing benefits for differing people in differing circumstances: there is NO ‘one size fits all’––a customised model tailored to the individual fits best. No individual in our studies claimed any one single treatment helped them: they trialled interventions, mixed and matched them, changed to fresh therapies and ceased those they considered ineffective and, above all, ensured that their adopted de-stressing approaches became habits, incorporated little by little into daily routines. This chapter lists what de-stressing strategies were of most benefit as judged by participants in the Sydney studies. These include seeking help and support; walking and other exercise; improving sleep; meditation and mindfulness; and taking time off (or leaving) work. One-third had trialled an antidepressant and most had found it helpful, probably because of its anti-worrying properties. Rated as ‘low helpfulness’ were discussions with employers or human resources staff and coping by increasing drug and alcohol intake.
